2019 Porto > Porto

Terraced vineyards rise from riverbanks and Baroque villages remain a marvellous reminder of the past. Experience Roman Salamanca for its vibrant nightlife, and try Porto’s famous fortified wine.

This 8-day roundtrip sailing from Porto introduces some of the region’s most inspiring destinations, including Régua, Pocinho and Vega de Terrón, and includes a visit to the exquisite Spanish city of Salamanca.
Your journey on this rousing waterway begins and ends in Porto, one of Portugal’s oldest and most beautiful cities, and sees you travel upstream through the twists and turns of the World Heritage-listed Douro Valley, calling at charming destinations like Pinhao, Vega de Terrón and Pocinho.

8 Day Itinerary

Day 1 -
Arrival Porto

Welcome to Porto. You will be met at the airport and transferred to the ship where a warm welcome awaits you from your Captain and crew as you board your luxury Emerald Radiance river cruise ship. Tonight, enjoy dinner on board with your fellow travellers. Your Cruise Director will also conduct a port talk to review the activities and itinerary for the days ahead.EmeraldPLUS: Sunset Cruise Through Porto

Meals included: Dinner

Day 2 -
Porto – Pinhão

Today, enjoy a full day sailing the windy turns and twists of the Douro Valley. A UNESCO world heritage site this area is sparsely populated by small quaint villages and typical communities working vineyards and small farms. In the afternoon, your Cruise Director will host a lecture on board showcasing the history and wine culture of the region. Later, arrive in the village of Pinhão which is situated on a river bend surrounded by terraced hillsides producing some of the world’s best Port. Tonight, your captain will be delighted to host the welcome dinner and cocktail reception.EmeraldPLUS: Cooking Demonstration on BoardEmeraldACTIVE: Yoga Lesson on Board

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 -
Pinhao - Vega de Terrón

Begin your day with a visit to a beautiful Quinta vineyard in the heart of the Douro Valley. Alternatively, join the EmeraldACTIVE walk through the vineyards. Later, sail to Vega de Terrón, your gateway into Spain.EmeraldACTIVE: Guided Walk through VineyardsEmeraldPLUS: Cocktail Lesson on board

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 -
Salamanca

Founded in Roman times, the city of Salamanca is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, the seat of the Spanish language, and still a lively student town. Board your coach this morning in Vega de Terrón and travel to this beautiful golden city for a guided walking tour passing through its grand squares and medieval structures, where you will feel like stepping back in time. Tapas bars feature on every street and traditional Spanish music trickles out of buzzing bars and restaurants. You will also have plenty of free time to explore independently before returning to the ship later this afternoon.EmeraldPLUS: Local Entertainment

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5 -
Pocinho

This morning, arrive in Pocinho and either embark on an excursion to the Côa Valley Museum or take part on the Emerald Active canoeing experience. The Côa Valley Museum is a concrete structure that details pre-historic stone carvings made by the early inhabitants of the Douro, which were uncovered during the construction of the nearby dam. Later return to your ship for lunch and enjoy your idyllic surroundings as you sail towards Régua.EmeraldACTIVE: Guided Canoeing ExperienceEmeraldACTIVE: Yoga Lesson on BoardEmeraldPLUS: This evening your highlight dinner will be hosted at a traditional rural wine estate in the Régua area

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 -
Régua

Today you will have a choice to visit the marvelous baroque village of Lamego and the picturesque Our Lady of Remedies Sanctuary where history stands still. As part of your EmeraldACTIVE feature, walk up the stairs of the Our Lady of Remedies Sanctuary.EmeraldACTIVE: Walking up the Stairs of the SanctuaryEmeraldACTIVE: Yoga Lesson on BoardEmeraldPLUS: Mosaic Tile Painting Lessons on Board

Located at the mouth of the Douro River, Porto is a fascinating eclectic mix of modern and ancient architecture. Enjoy your city tour passing by numerous landmarks of this beautiful city.EmeraldACTIVE: Guided Active Walking Tour

DiscoverMORE: Visit to Guimarães (extra expense)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 -
Porto Disembarkation

After breakfast disembark your river cruise ship and transfer to Porto airport for your onward or homebound flight.